- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
State Recreation Area
150 S. Highway 183 | Elm Creek, NE 68836
Sandy Channel State Recreation Area provides great opportunities for fishing, floating, kayaking, and primitive camping. This area, located 3 miles south of Elm Creek, encompasses approximately 180 acres, including 52 acres of water in six lakes. Clear water provides a scenic atmosphere for scuba divers. Recent improvements at Sandy Channel include fishing access, boat ramps, picnic tables, grills, hiking trails, kiosk and handicap accessible latrines.
Aerial view of Sandy Channel State Recreation Area in Nebraska. Photo by Eric Fowler, Nebraskaland Magazine
Hiking path at Sandy Channel. These scenic paths lead to fishing spots at numerous lakes at Sandy Channel. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Waterside tent camping at Sandy Channel State Recreation Area in Phelps County. Eric Fowler, Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Sandy Channel has a series of sandpit lakes that offer anglers a variety of opportunities. Largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and crappie can be found in all of the pits as well as a variety of other species. Pit #8, the largest pit located on the north and northeast side of the area, may even offer anglers a chance of catching a walleye or even a muskellunge. Bow-fishing and spearfishing opportunities for non-game fish also abound.
Hunting opportunities at Sandy Channel include dove, rabbit and waterfowl on 180 acres of land.
Only electric motor and non-powered boats, such as canoes and kayaks, are allowed.
The area has numerous picnic tables and grills located at campsites and in shaded picnic areas.
Sandy Channel is located near the Elm Creek interchange on I-80. Nearby attractions include the Chevyland U.S.A. Auto Museum, Fort Kearny State Historical Park and the Cabela’s flagship store.
Sandy Channel offers 30 non-pad sites without electricity which are available year-round on a first come, first serve basis. Campers register their nightly camping fees in a raised, locked box called an iron ranger. Self-service envelopes are provided at each station and accept cash or checks only.
Park Pricing
A park entry permit is required to visit state parks and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors, or in advance of your arrival online. View those fees, as well as attraction and amenity pricing.
